Understanding Mental Health
What is mental health?
Mental health includes your psychological, emotional, and social well-being. It affects how you think, feel, handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Everyone has mental health, just like everyone has physical health. It exists on a spectrum, and conditions like stress, depression, and anxiety can affect it, creating challenges that are manageable with the right support.
Is mental health important?
Absolutely. Prioritizing mental health is crucial at every stage of life. It is deeply connected to your physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Poor mental health can negatively impact your mood, thinking, and behaviours, and can even contribute to physical health issues. Conversely, taking care of your mental health can lead to improved resilience, better coping skills, and a more fulfilling life.
Is mental health genetic?
Genetics can play a role, but they are not the whole story. A family history of mental health challenges can increase your risk, but it does not mean you will develop a condition. Mental health is influenced by a complex combination of biological factors (like the brain chemistry and genetics), life experiences (such as trauma or abuse), and environmental factors.
What are the causes of mental illness or mental health issues?
Mental health issues are typically caused by a complex interaction of multiple factors. These can include:
- Biological Factors: Genetic makeup, brain chemistry, and physical health conditions or injuries.
- Psychological Factors: Individual personality, coping styles, and history of psychological trauma.
- Environmental & Social Factors: Exposure to stress, trauma, abuse, social isolation, work conditions, and the strength of your support networks.
How does mental health affect physical health?
The mind and body are intricately linked. This connection, often called the mind-body link, is powerful. For example, chronic stress or depression can lead to physical symptoms like a weakened immune system, high blood pressure, digestive issues, and sleep problems.
Conversely, regular physical activity is a powerful way to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Taking care of your mental health is a vital part of taking care of your overall physical health.
Are mental health problems common?
Yes, mental health problems are very common. Approximately one in five Canadians experiences a mental health issue in any given year. If you are struggling, you are not alone, and effective help is available. Seeking support is a sign of strength and a common step toward wellness.
Seeking Help and Understanding Professionals
How do I get help?
The first step is reaching out. You can start by talking to your family doctor, who can provide an initial assessment and rule out any underlying physical causes. You can also contact a regulated mental health professional, like a psychologist or registered psychotherapist, directly. In a crisis, please call 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis line immediately.
Who should I talk to about mental health?
It can be helpful to talk to someone you trust, such as a friend or family member. For professional support, you can speak with your family doctor, a registered psychotherapist, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a therapist?
Psychiatrist: A medical doctor (MD) specializing in mental health. They can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and provide medical treatments. Their focus is often on the biological aspects of mental illness.
Psychologist: Holds a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and is a member of the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario. They are experts in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy. They cannot prescribe medication.
Therapist/Counsellor: This is a broader term. A Registered Psychotherapist (RP) is a regulated professional who has met specific educational, training, and ethical standards set by a professional college (like the CRPO in Ontario). The title “Counsellor” may or may not be protected by law, so it’s important to check a provider’s credentials.
What’s the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?
These terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, psychotherapy is a more in-depth process that focuses on chronic or recurring issues, patterns, and deep-seated emotional challenges. Counselling often addresses specific, current issues and life challenges for a shorter duration (e.g., grief, career stress, relationship problems). Qualified professionals provide both.
What’s the difference between Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?
CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to emotional distress. It is highly structured and goal-oriented.
DBT is a form of CBT that emphasizes balancing acceptance and change. It is particularly effective for treating conditions involving intense emotions and self-destructive behaviours, as well as teaching skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
About Treatment & Conditions
What types of mental illness can be treated by a psychiatrist? Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and eating disorders. They often work with complex cases requiring medication management and can use a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and other interventions.
Can therapists prescribe medication?
In Canada, psychologists and psychotherapists cannot prescribe medication. Only medical doctors, such as psychiatrists and family physicians, can prescribe. Your therapist may collaborate with your doctor if medication is considered part of your treatment plan.
How do I stop suicidal thoughts?
Suicidal thoughts are a medical emergency. If you are in immediate danger, call 911, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis line immediately (e.g., Canada Suicide Prevention Service at 1-833-456-4566). With professional help, suicidal thoughts are treatable. It’s important to remember that your problems are temporary, but suicide is permanent. A therapist can help you develop safety plans, learn coping strategies, and address the underlying issues causing these thoughts.
What’s the difference between psychosis and neurosis?
These are older terms, but the distinction is :
Neurosis is an outdated term for conditions involving significant distress but no loss of contact with reality, such as anxiety and depression.
Psychosis involves a loss of contact with reality, which may include hallucinations (seeing/hearing things that aren’t there) and delusions (fixed false beliefs). Modern diagnostic systems no longer use the term “neurosis.”
What’s the difference between anxiety and stress?
Stress is a response to an external cause (e.g., a work deadline) and typically subsides once the situation is resolved.
Anxiety is a persistent feeling of worry or dread that does not always have an identifiable external trigger and can interfere with daily functioning even in the absence of an immediate stressor.
What’s the difference between sadness and depression?
Sadness is a normal human emotion in response to a difficult event. It is temporary and fades with time.
Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) is a clinical condition that affects mood, thoughts, and physical health. It persists for at least two weeks and includes a cluster of symptoms like loss of interest in activities, significant changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness.
About the Therapy Process at Prime Psychotherapy
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a therapist. It involves a range of techniques to help you understand and manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, thereby improving your quality of life. This can include verbal communication (talk therapy) as well as non-verbal means of expression like art, mindfulness, and play (especially with children).
Why would I see a psychologist or psychotherapist?
People seek therapy for many reasons: to cope with life transitions, manage anxiety or depression, heal from trauma, improve relationships, change unhealthy patterns, or simply for personal growth and self-understanding.
What should I ask when I’m looking for a therapist?
Key questions include:
- Are you registered with a regulatory college? (e.g., CRPO, College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario)
- What is your experience treating [my specific concern]?
- What is your approach or therapeutic orientation?
- What are your fees, and do you offer sliding scales?
- What are your appointment availability and cancellation policies?
Is what I say to my therapist private and confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy and a strict ethical requirement. Everything you discuss is private, with a few legal exceptions, which your therapist will discuss with you during your first session (informed consent). These exceptions typically include a risk of imminent harm to self or others, suspected child abuse or neglect, or if a court subpoenas the records.
What will my first visit to a psychologist or psychotherapist be like?
Your first session is an opportunity to begin building a relationship with your therapist. They will explain how they work and review confidentiality. They will be interested in hearing about your life, the challenges you’re facing, and your goals for therapy. It’s also a chance for you to ask any questions and see if you feel comfortable with the people involved.
How long is a therapy session? How long will I need therapy for?
A standard therapy session is typically 50 minutes. The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on your individual needs, goals, and the type of therapy. It is a collaborative process, and your therapist will regularly check in with you about your progress. Some people benefit from short-term treatment, while others may engage in longer-term work.
How will the therapist plan my treatment?
Treatment is collaborative. After the initial assessment, your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that outlines your goals and the proposed methods to achieve them. This plan is not set in stone; it is regularly reviewed and adjusted as needed based on your progress and feedback.
What will happen during therapy?
In sessions, you will talk about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Your therapist will listen, provide feedback, and teach you practical skills and strategies to help you cope and make positive changes in your life. The process is tailored to your unique needs.
Why do psychologists use tests?
Psychologists use standardized psychological tests and assessments to gain a more profound, objective understanding of a client’s functioning. This can help in diagnosing specific conditions (e.g., learning disorders, ADHD), understanding personality styles, clarifying strengths and challenges, and informing a precise treatment plan.
How do I schedule a visit with Prime Psychotherapy?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at (647) 799 3185, filling out the contact form on our website, or emailing us at info@primepsychotherapy.ca.
